Description
Lexus launched the second generation of the RX SUV at the 2003 North American International Motor Show and promised more performances with better fuel efficiency.
The world started to switch its attention towards SUVs, and Lexus tried to get a higher market share. Like its predecessor, the 2004 model year RX relied on the Japan-only model Toyota Harrier. Lexus offered the RX as an alternative for the sporty BMW X5, which enjoyed huge success on both sides of the Atlantic. Unlike its German rival, the Japanese SUV was not available with a turbo-diesel unit, which slowed its sales on the European continent.
From the outside, the RX featured a new design with curved, triangular headlights and a slanted grille incorporated in the hood's front side. Even though it was an SUV, its athletic profile with raked-forward tailgate and C-pillars created a sporty image. Its clear taillights created the appearance of an aftermarket improvement, even though it was standard.
Inside, the carmaker went over the bridge and offered the car a standard leather-clad interior. Toyota offered a standard Bose CD stereo with an option for an 11-speakers Mark Levinson sound system. At the front, a pair of bucket seats offered a real premium feeling with an option for heating and ventilation.
Under the hood, the RX started its career with a gasoline-only V-6 engine. Later on, a hybrid version named RX400h became a sought-after SUV thanks to its high fuel efficiency, especially in FWD versions. It was the first premium hybrid vehicle on the market.
Press Release
The second generation Harrier (codename ACU30 and MCU30 for the front wheel drive models, and ACU35 and MCU35 for the four wheel drive models) was launched in February 2003 in Japan and featured a newer, sleeker body style. As remaining Lexus's entry-level SUV, it changed its competitors to the BMW X3, Land Rover Freelander and the new Infiniti FX35, because the Lexus GX slotted between this SUV and the Lexus LX. Mechanical specification is largely similar to the first-generation Harrier, with the same engine and drivetrain combinations available (2.4 L and 3.0 L V6 with or without four wheel drive). The main difference is a new 5-speed automatic transmission with +/- shift replacing the 4-speed item in the 3.0 L V6, and the availability of "AIRS" air-suspension on the 3.0 L V6 models. A JBL sound system is an available feature.
The second generation RX, now called the RX 330 for the North American and Middle Eastern markets, was introduced at the 2003 North American International Auto Show. The North American-market cars were initially built in Japan, with production of the RX 330 started at Toyota's Cambridge, Ontario, Canada plant in September 2003 (some North American RX 330/RX 350 models are still made in Japan). The RX 330 is powered by a 3.3 L 3MZ-FE V6, producing 223 hp SAE and (238 ft·lbf), and is available in either front or four wheel drive. "AIRS" air-suspension is again an option on the four wheel drive models, and interestingly, a Mark Levinson sound-system is available in place of the JBL system found in the Harrier.
For European and Asian markets, the second generation RX was launched in early 2003, where it continues to be a RX 300 and is made in Japan. Mechanical specification is more or less identical to the 3.0 L V6 Harrier, with only the four wheel drive version available. Once again, air-suspension and Mark Levinson audio can be specified.
The Harrier Hybrid went on sale in Japan on March 2005, and the hybrid Lexus RX 400h went on sale during the 2006 model year in North America. Europe and Asia will also receive the Hybrid RX during 2006.
For 2007, the RX has a mid-cycle refresh consisting of a new 2GR-FE 3.5-liter V6 instead of the older 3MZ-FE 3.3-liter V6 engine, changing the vehicle's name from RX 330 to RX 350. The RX 350 will also feature an updated DVD navigation system with better graphics, voice controlled destination inputs, and a new device called "bread crumbs". Bread crumbs will enable drivers to retrace their steps.
